Winch replacement

wgh52 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

I'm considering replacing my Barient 25's for self tailing winches. I'm a bit confused about what I should be considering. I'm looking at the Harken 44.2's or the 46.2's. I'm also looking at Lewmar 44ST's. Does anyone have experience with either and have a opinion of the better of the two? The boat is a Swift 40 Ketch with Genoa Sail Area of 444 SQ FT. I believe the 25's are a little undersized or I'm getting weak in my older years.

Any advice, suggestions.

Rockter · #2 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

One of the problems that you are likely to face are that even if the winch is the same size, the new holes will not line up with the old.
I simply could not face re-drilling them.

zz4gta · #3 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

I've only heard this, but a lot of people prefer the lewmare over harken when it comes to winches. could be just hear-say. Not sure why though.

artbyjody · #4 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

I think you will be fine with either brand. I have primarily Lewmars on mine (came with the boat), and installed two Harken Quatros up forward for use when doing spin work. Sadly as Rockter stated - holes rarely match up between brands much less within brands so be prepared to do some filling and drilling....

sailingdog · #5 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

I would recommend the Lewmar winches over the Harken, since the Harken have had some more maintenance problems than the Lewmars have over the years.

Not only will you need to fill and drill, you'll also probably want a decent backing plate for the winches, if there isn't one already glassed in. Don't forget to pot the holes if the winch is mounted on a cored section of deck/cabintop.

SEMIJim · #6 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

The PO of our boat replaced the original small winches with Harken #40's. He was into racing big-time, and he won a lot, so I assume he pretty-much knew what he was doing. Plus Harken's customer service and tech. support have been spectacular, in my experience. So I guess I'd tend toward Harken.

Jim

sailingfool · #7 (**permalink**) 10-16-2008

My boat has nine Lewmars which have served very well and reliably for 20 years. Our primaries are 46STs, I wouldn't mind having the next size up, so i suspect you could do the same...it's only $$$$$.